BACHELOR OF SOCIAL WORK STUDENT HANDBOOK & PROGRAM GUIDE

Transcription

1 BACHELOR OF SOCIAL WORK STUDENT HANDBOOK & PROGRAM GUIDE College of Arts, Social and Health Sciences UNIVERSITY OF NORTHERN BRITISH COLUMBIA University Way Prince George, BC V2N 4Z9 Website:

2 Glen Schmidt, BSW Coordinator Telephone: Bruce Bidgood Northwest Regional Campus Telephone: Heather Peters South Central Regional Campus Telephone: Dave Sangha Peace River-Liard Regional Campus Telephone: Indrani Margolin Vancouver Regional Campus Telephone: All Inquiries Barbara Curtis, BSW Advisor Telephone: Student Handbook & Program Guide for the Bachelor of Social Work i

3 Table of Contents Page No. Mission Statement... 1 The Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)... 2 Accreditation... 2 Mode of Study... 2 Location of Study... Admission Process... Entry Route 1: Admission Following Two Years of General University Studies... Entry Route 2: Transfer from the Community Colleges... Entry Route : Entry from a Bachelor Degree... 4 When Can I Apply?... 4 Prince George Campus... 4 Regional Campuses... 4 Program Options... 5 Child Welfare Specialization... 5 First Nations Specialization... 5 Requirements for a BSW degree... 6 General BSW Course Schedule... 6 Child Welfare Specialization Course Schedule... 7 First Nations Specialization Course Schedule... 8 Regional Schedule General BSW Course Schedule... 9 Child Welfare Specialization Course Schedule First Nations Specialization Course Schedule... 1 Regional Courses Required Social Work Courses rd Year - 00 Level th year Level Elective Social Work Courses Awards and Financial Aid Student Participation in Decision-Making Student Handbook & Program Guide for the Bachelor of Social Work ii

4 Grading and Assignments Policy Class Attendance Grading Submission of Assignments Grading Schedule Disabilities Getting Help with Writing Skills APA Style Examination Policy... 0 Academic Probation... 0 Grade Review Procedures... 0 Plagiarism... 1 Confidentiality... 2 Field Education... 2 Maintaining Student Status 2 Academic Advising... 2 Professional Suitability Policy... 2 Prohibited Conduct... Review Mechanism... A Caution About Use of Social Media... 4 Harassment, Discrimination and Diversity Initiatives... 4 UNBC General Program Information: Prince George Campus... 5 Faculty Research Interests... 6 Student Handbook & Program Guide for the Bachelor of Social Work iii

5 SCHOOL OF SOCIAL WORK University of Northern British Columbia Mission Statement Social work education at the University of Northern British Columbia is committed to a program of studies that is informed by a central concern for human rights, personal empowerment, community change, and social justice. It has as its foundation an analysis of power in relation to class, race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, and abilities. Incorporating critical social thinking including structural, feminist, and anti-racist analyses, the School focuses on social work in northern and remote areas, aboriginal and cross cultural issues, women and human services, and community practice and research. It will continue to develop in collaboration with regional, national, and global communities. The School of Social Work seeks to provide its graduates with intellectual, practical, and professional skills and knowledge rooted in progressive values that promote beneficial change. By acknowledging the holistic, interdisciplinary, and activist nature of social work and its commitment to social justice, the curriculum and governance of social work education at UNBC will strive to provide a self-reflective balance between theory and practice; research, teaching, and community service; and critical self-awareness and respect for the ideas of others. The School of Social Work will seek to ensure a safe and stimulating education environment for faculty, staff, and students. Student Handbook & Program Guide for the Bachelor of Social Work 1

6 The Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) The Bachelor of Social Work degree at UNBC is designed to prepare students for beginning level, generalist social work practice with individuals, families, groups, and communities. The focus of the BSW is oriented towards social work in northern and remote areas, First Nations, women and the human services, and community practice and research. Analysis of class, gender, and race relations are considered central to the school of social work. As mandated by its accrediting body, the Canadian Association for Social Work Education and the Social Work Code of Ethics, Social Work at UNBC provides a professional program that advocates for justice and equality and equips graduates with the intellectual, practical, and professional skills needed to promote beneficial change. Social Work exists in an era of globalization that results in growing unemployment, underemployment, deepening economic vulnerability and uncertainty for many Canadians. This has resulted in increased demand for assistance and social work intervention during a period of declining resources, fiscal restraint, and growing uncertainty for client groups as well as human service workers. Another reality is that First Nations and other consumer groups have begun to take control of their own services. They have rejected and altered many of the practices social work once took for granted. In this process the relations of power between professionals and client groups have changed. One of the major challenges facing social work education at UNBC is to provide a program of studies that prepares students for effective practice in the evolving economic, political, and social contexts. Social Work at UNBC does this by accenting the way global, national, provincial, and historical forces affect the well-being of those that live, work, and practice in this region. A major strength of the program lies in its effort to foster critical intervention skills that weave the domains of social policy and research with social work practice. This priority is attained through course offerings that emphasize and integrate the crucial links between social work and social welfare policy, practice, and research. ACCREDITATION: The BSW program at UNBC is accredited by the Canadian Association for Social Work Education (CASWE). MODE OF STUDY: The school of social work offers a full-time and part-time program of studies using both classroom-based and web-based courses. One of the biggest advantages of online learning is that it allows for interaction in both synchronous and asynchronous modes. That is, it allows for place and time independence. Students can interact on their own time and have the flexibility to take courses without physically walking into the classroom. Given the increasing use of online learning technology, it is important to become familiar with learn.unbc.ca as an online learning environment. The Northern Social Work Student Association with support from the Centre for Teaching, Learning, and Technology host a site where students can participate in a variety of online activities. It is recommended that you contact Grant Potter, E-Learning Coordinator at ( ) or gpotter@unbc.ca to acquire information on how to login to learn.unbc.ca. Student Handbook & Program Guide for the Bachelor of Social Work 2

7 Location of Study: Courses are offered in Prince George and selected regional sites. Prince George Dawson Creek/Fort St. John Quesnel Terrace Vancouver Admission Process Admission to the BSW program is by selection and takes place in the third year of university studies. There are three routes into the program. These include: Entry Route # 1 - Admission following Two Years of General University Study: Students will have completed 60 credit hours of study, and have achieved a minimum grade point average of 2.67 (B-) calculated on a student s most recent 60 credit hours of studies. It will also be expected that students have completed the following pre-requisites (as part of the required 60 credit hours of study): SOCW 200- Introduction to Social Work Practice SOCW 201- Introduction to Social Welfare FNST 100- The Aboriginal Peoples of Canada WMST 100- Introduction to Women s Studies Entry Route # 2 - Transfer from the Community Colleges: Students enrolled in BC community colleges are eligible for discretionary transfer credit. Students will need to consult with their college advisor and the BCCAT document. Students will have completed a minimum 54 credit hours of study, and have achieved a minimum grade point average of 2.67 (B-) calculated on a student s most recent 54 credit hours of studies. Students admitted with 54 credit hours must complete 6 credit hours of liberal arts courses before they can graduate. It is expected that students will have completed the following pre-requisites (as part of the required 54 credit hours of study) (Check with your institution to see which courses are considered equivalent. Not all seemingly related courses transfer.): SOCW 200- Introduction to Social Work Practice SOCW 201- Introduction to Social Welfare FNST 100- The Aboriginal Peoples of Canada WMST 100- Introduction to Women s Studies Student Handbook & Program Guide for the Bachelor of Social Work

8 Entry Route # - Entry from a Bachelor Degree in a related discipline Students who hold a Bachelor degree in a related discipline and have achieved a minimum grade point average of 2.67 (B-) can apply for entrance into the third year of the School of Social Work. Students applying to the School of Social Work with a Baccalaureate degree in a related discipline do not have to take the four BSW course pre-requisites: Selection Process: Admission into the school of social work is a competitive process. Preference will be given to applicants with: Equal access according to age, race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, disability, and paid or volunteer human service experience Northern and remote residency Grade Point Average Statement of intent References Students must also undergo a criminal record search as part of the admission process. A personal interview may be requested to address issues arising from the criminal record search, reference letters, and statement of intent. Students are also expected to comply with the standards articulated in the BCASW Code of Ethics throughout their program of training in Social Work at UNBC. When can I Apply? Prince George Campus: There is one Admissions intake per year for the BSW Program offered at the Prince George Campus. Application packages are available the first week of November, due January 1st, for a September start date. Applications can be accessed online at or at the Office of the Registrar. Regional Campuses (Quesnel, Fort St. John/Dawson Creek, Terrace, Vancouver: Admissions for the regional campuses occur every second year. Application packages are available the first week of November, due January 1 st, for a September start date. Applications can be accessed online at the regional campus, or at the Office of the Registrar in Prince George. Student Handbook & Program Guide for the Bachelor of Social Work 4

9 Program Options In addition to our generalist BSW program, the following specialization streams are available: Child Welfare Specialization: The Child Welfare Specialization (CWS) was introduced in 2001 as a program of studies designed to prepare students for practice in the field of child welfare. It is intended to increase the student s educational and career opportunities for social work practice in all child and family serving agencies. Students who opt for the CWS may be required to undergo a suitability interview with a designated child welfare agency. It should also be understood that there are only a limited number of fourth year field placement options in the communities of Prince George, Quesnel, Terrace, Dawson Creek/Fort St. John and Vancouver. CWS field placement options may be available in outlying communities. For additional information you are asked to contact the Field Director. Completion of the specialization is noted on the student s graduating transcript. First Nations Specialization: The First Nations Specialization (FNS) has been designed to provide a program of studies that prepares students for practice with First Nations people, communities, and organizations. Students enrolled in the FNS are required to complete their fourth year practicum with a First Nations organization. Completion of the specialization is noted on the student s graduating transcript. Student Handbook & Program Guide for the Bachelor of Social Work 5

10 Requirements for a BSW Degree Required Courses SOCW 00 SOCW 01 SOCW 10 SOCW 20 Elective General BSW Course Schedule* Year Year 4 Credits Semester Required Courses September 2014 SOCW 401 September 2014 SOCW 420 September 2014 Elective September 2014 Elective September 2014 Elective Credits Semester September 2015 September 2015 September 2015 September 2015 September 2015 Total Credits SOCW 02 SOCW 0 SOCW 6 Elective Total Required Credits 6 SOCW January * This is based on full time studies at the Prince George campus. Part-time students in Prince George, as well as students in Fort St. John/Dawson Creek, Quesnel, Terrace and Vancouver will have a different course schedule. It is especially important for part-time students, regardless of campus location, to be aware of course prerequisites. Required Courses: The general BSW program consists of 45 credit hours of required courses. Electives: The general BSW program consists of 15 credit hours of electives (See information under SOCW 421). The elective courses are numbered in the 400 ranges, but may be taken in the third year or fourth year of studies. For a list of available electives please consult the online course schedule at SOCW 02 Third Year Field Education: Students are required to complete SOCW 00, 01, 10 and 20 before enrolling in the three-day per week (Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday) field placement. SOCW 401 Northern/Remote Social Work Practice: Students are required to complete all 00 level required courses before enrolling in SOCW 401. SOCW 402 Fourth Year Field Education: Students are required to complete all 00 and 400 level required courses before enrolling in SOCW 402. SOCW 421 Human Growth and Development: Students are required to take a human growth and development course to graduate with a BSW degree. If not taken in the first two years of university or university transfer study, students must take SOCW 421 as a required course. Student Handbook & Program Guide for the Bachelor of Social Work 6

11 Required Courses SOCW 00 SOCW 01 SOCW 10 SOCW 20 SOCW 426 Child Welfare Specialization Course Schedule* Year Year 4 Credits Semester Required Courses September 2014 SOCW 401 September 2014 SOCW 420 September 2014 SOCW 422 September 2014 SOCW 49 September 2014 Elective Credits Semester September 2015 September 2015 September 2015 September 2015 September 2015 Total Credits SOCW 02 SOCW 0 SOCW 6 Elective Total Required Credits 6 SOCW January * See previous note for General BSW Course Schedule. Required Courses: The Child Welfare Specialization consists of 54 credit hours of required courses. Electives: The Child Welfare Specialization consists of 6 credit hours of electives. The elective courses are numbered in the 400 ranges, but may be taken in the third year or fourth year of studies. For a list of available electives please consult the online course schedule at SOCW 02 Third Year Field Education: Students are required to complete SOCW 00, 01, 10 and 20 before enrolling in the three-day per week (Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday) field placement. SOCW 401 Northern/Remote Social Work Practice: Students are required to complete all 100, 200, and 00 level required courses before enrolling in SOCW 401. SOCW 402 Fourth Year Field Education: Students are required to complete all required 00 and 400 level courses before enrolling in SOCW 402. SOCW 421 Human Growth and Development: Students are required to take a human growth and development course to graduate with a BSW degree. If not taken in the first two years of university or university transfer study, students must take SOCW 421 as a required course. Student Handbook & Program Guide for the Bachelor of Social Work 7

12 Required Courses SOCW 00 SOCW 01 SOCW 10 SOCW 20 SOCW 457 First Nations Specialization Course Schedule* Year Year 4 Credits Semester Required Courses September 2014 SOCW 401 September 2014 SOCW 456 September 2014 Elective September 2014 Elective September 2014 Elective Credits Semester September 2015 September 2015 September 2015 September 2015 September 2015 Total Credits SOCW 02 SOCW 0 SOCW 6 SOCW 455 Total Required Credits 6 SOCW January * See previous note for General BSW Course Schedule. Required Courses: The First Nations Specialization consists of 51 credit hours of required courses. Electives: The First Nations Specialization generally consists of 9 credit hours of electives. The elective courses are numbered in the 400 ranges, but may be taken in the third year or fourth year of studies. For a list of available electives please consult the online course schedule at SOCW 02 Third Year Field Education: Students are required to complete SOCW 00, 01, 10 and 20 before enrolling in the three-day per week (Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday) field placement. SOCW 401 Northern/Remote Social Work Practice: Students are required to complete all 100, 200, and 00 level required courses before enrolling in SOCW 401. SOCW 402 Fourth Year Field Education: Students are required to complete all required 00 and 400 level courses before enrolling in SOCW 402. SOCW 421 Human Growth and Development: Students are required to take a human growth and development course to graduate with a BSW degree. If not taken in the first two years of university or university transfer study, students must take SOCW 421 as a required course. Regional Courses Subject to available resources, courses may be offered in the UNBC regions: Quesnel, Terrace, Fort St. John/Dawson Creek and Vancouver. Students may take up to three social work elective courses (excluding practicum courses) without formal admission to the program. Successful completion of these courses does not guarantee entry into the program. Student Handbook & Program Guide for the Bachelor of Social Work 8

13 Requirements for a BSW Degree REGIONAL Required Courses SOCW 00 SOCW 01 SOCW 10 Elective** SOCW 20 SOCW 0 SOCW 6 Elective** Total Required Credits BSW Course Schedule* Year Year 4 Credits Semester Required Credits Semester Required Courses Courses September 2014 SOCW 02 6 September 2015 September 2014 Elective** September 2015 September 2014 Elective** September 2015 September 2014 SOCW 401 SOCW 420 Elective** January 2016 January 2016 January 2016 Credits Year 5 Semester SOCW September Total Credits *This is based on full time students attending a regional campus. It is especially important for students to be aware that failure to take courses when offered may result in missing course prerequisites, thus slowing down completion of your studies. Students should also note that intakes at regional locations normally take place every other year; therefore, getting out of sequence can result in substantial delay in completion and/or travel to another campus. **Note that electives are offered as needed during the September and January semesters and also in the spring/summer semester. Required Courses: The general BSW program consists of 45 credit hours of required courses. Electives: The general BSW program consists of 15 credit hours of electives (See information under SOCW 421). The elective courses are numbered in the 400 ranges, but may be taken in the third year or fourth year of studies. For a list of available electives please consult the online course schedule at SOCW 02 Third Year Field Education: Students are required to complete SOCW 00, 01, 10 and 20 before enrolling in the three-day per week (normally Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday) field placement. Student Handbook & Program Guide for the Bachelor of Social Work 9

14 SOCW 401 Northern/Remote Social Work Practice: Students are required to complete all 00 level required courses before enrolling in SOCW 401. SOCW 402 Fourth Year Field Education: Students are required to complete all 00 and 400 level required courses before enrolling in SOCW 402. SOCW 421 Human Growth and Development: Students are required to take a human growth and development course to graduate with a BSW degree. If not taken in the first two years of university or university transfer study, students must take SOCW 421 as a required course. Student Handbook & Program Guide for the Bachelor of Social Work 10

15 Requirements for a BSW Degree REGIONAL Required Courses SOCW 00 SOCW 01 SOCW 10 SOCW 426 SOCW 20 SOCW 0 SOCW 6 Elective** Total Required Credits Child Welfare Specialization BSW Course Schedule* Year Year 4 Credits Semester Required Credits Semester Required Courses Courses September 2014 SOCW 02 6 September 2015 September 2014 SOCW 422 September 2015 September 2014 SOCW 49 September 2015 September 2014 SOCW 401 SOCW 420 Elective** January 2016 January 2016 January 2016 Credits Year 5 Semester SOCW September Total Credits * This is based on full time students attending a regional campus. It is especially important for students to be aware that failure to take courses when offered may result in missing course prerequisites, thus slowing down completion of your studies. Students should also note that intakes at regional locations normally take place every other year; therefore, getting out of sequence can result in substantial delay in completion and/or travel to another campus. **Note that electives are offered as needed during the September and January semesters and also in the spring/summer semester. Required Courses: The Child Welfare Specialization consists of 54 credit hours of required courses. Electives: The Child Welfare Specialization consists of 6 credit hours of electives. The elective courses are numbered in the 400 ranges, but may be taken in the third year or fourth year of studies. For a list of available electives please consult the online course schedule at SOCW 02 Third Year Field Education: Students are required to complete SOCW 00, 01, 10 and 20 before enrolling in the three-day per week (Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday) field placement. Student Handbook & Program Guide for the Bachelor of Social Work 11

16 SOCW 401 Northern/Remote Social Work Practice: Students are required to complete all 100, 200, and 00 level required courses before enrolling in SOCW 401. SOCW 402 Fourth Year Field Education: Students are required to complete all required 00 and 400 level courses before enrolling in SOCW 402. SOCW 421 Human Growth and Development: Students are required to take a human growth and development course to graduate with a BSW degree. If not taken in the first two years of university or university transfer study, students must take SOCW 421 as a required course. Student Handbook & Program Guide for the Bachelor of Social Work 12

17 Requirements for a BSW Degree REGIONAL Required Courses SOCW 00 SOCW 01 SOCW 10 SOCW 455 SOCW 20 SOCW 0 SOCW 6 SOCW 456 Total Required Credits First Nations Specialization BSW Course Schedule* Year Year 4 Credits Semester Required Credits Semester Required Courses Courses September 2014 SOCW 02 6 September 2015 September 2014 SOCW 457 September 2015 September 2014 Elective** September 2015 September 2014 SOCW 401 Elective** Elective** January 2016 January 2016 January 2016 Credits Year 5 Semester SOCW September Total Credits * This is based on full time students attending a regional campus. It is especially important for students to be aware that failure to take courses when offered may result in missing course prerequisites, thus slowing down completion of your studies. Students should also note that intakes at regional locations normally take place every other year; therefore, getting out of sequence can result in substantial delay in completion and/or travel to another campus. **Note that electives are offered as needed during the September and January semesters and also in the spring/summer semester. Required Courses: The First Nations Specialization consists of 51 credit hours of required courses. Electives: The First Nations Specialization generally consists of 9 credit hours of electives. The elective courses are numbered in the 400 ranges, but may be taken in the third year or fourth year of studies. For a list of available electives please consult the online course schedule at SOCW 02 Third Year Field Education: Students are required to complete SOCW 00, 01, 10 and 20 before enrolling in the three-day per week (Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday) field placement. Student Handbook & Program Guide for the Bachelor of Social Work 1

18 SOCW 401 Northern/Remote Social Work Practice: Students are required to complete all 100, 200, and 00 level required courses before enrolling in SOCW 401. SOCW 402 Fourth Year Field Education: Students are required to complete all required 00 and 400 level courses before enrolling in SOCW 402. SOCW 421 Human Growth and Development: Students are required to take a human growth and development course to graduate with a BSW degree. If not taken in the first two years of university or university transfer study, students must take SOCW 421 as a required course. Student Handbook & Program Guide for the Bachelor of Social Work 14

19 Required Social Work Courses rd Year - 00 Level SOCW 00-: SW Communication Skills Communication Skills in Social Work Practice is an introductory course that aims to increase skills and analysis in the diverse cultural settings that are appropriate to social work among First Nations and remote, northern and rural communities. Learning to recognize the contradictions in people=s experiences and to maximize the possibilities, resources and strengths in their lives are critical aspects of a social worker=s practice. Emphasis on integration of interpersonal and analytic skills in learning effective helping strategies within a structural framework that acknowledges the influence of class, race and gender in shaping personal and social well-being. This course includes a Skills Laboratory. enrolment limited to students admitted to the School of Social Work SOCW 01-: Critical Social Work Practice This course critically examines the historical origins, values, methods and applications of various social work practice approaches. With an emphasis on structural, feminist, and First Nation social work strategies, the focus includes the application of these approaches to women, minority groups, First Nations, and residents of northern and remote communities. These will be contrasted with other models of social work practice including general systems theory, ecological theory, and case management. enrolment limited to students admitted to the School of Social Work SOCW 02-6: Social Work Field Education l An initial three-day per week field placement, which includes a bi-weekly integrative seminar, is required of all students. Students are involved in a wide range of practice roles and responsibilities at the individual, family, group and community levels. The course provides an initial opportunity for students to link social work concepts and theory with practice skills. It also introduces students to the structure, goals and operation of different human service agencies. Field practice objectives and details will be worked out among the student, the agency field supervisor and the faculty practicum advisor. SOCW 00-, 01-, 10- and 20-; enrolment limited to students admitted to the School of Social Work SOCW 10-: First Nations SW Issues First Nations Social Work Practice Issues examines methods of developing an anti-racist social work practice in the context of First Nations experience. Particular emphasis is placed on understanding emerging models and structures within First Nations communities. The development of these models is explored within a context of analysing the impact of the colonial experience. Students are introduced to alternative methods including some of the healing strategies and organizational structures in First Nations communities. enrolment limited to students admitted to the School of Social Work Preclusioned: SOCW 410- Student Handbook & Program Guide for the Bachelor of Social Work 15

20 SOCW 20-: Critical Social Policy This course examines the development of social policy in Canada, including current debates, from conventional and critical perspectives inviting students to consider the relationship between research, policy and social work practice. The course will review ideologies of social welfare policy, its formulation and implementation and consequences for people in need. Policy formulation will be analysed from a critical perspective that examines the role of power and privilege in the construction of social policy. Alternative social arrangements and models of policy and practice will be explored. enrolment limited to students admitted to the School of Social Work SOCW 0-: SW Research/Policy/Practice Social Work Research, Policy and Practice introduces research methods and analysis techniques that are used to examine issues in the policy and practice of social work and social welfare. It reviews qualitative and quantitative approaches with an emphasis on community needs research, participatory research and the development of interview schedules and questionnaires. The methods examined in this course will be linked to substantive policy and practice issues that reflect the economic, social and personal circumstances of people and communities in northern, remote and First Nation communities. enrolment limited to students admitted to the School of Social Work SOCW 6-: SW Philosophy and Ethics Social Work Philosophy and Ethics critically assesses the ethical issues involved in carrying out the tasks of social work practice, policy and research. Using the Social Work Code of Ethics as a starting point, these practice, policy and research roles are considered in the context of northern and remote social work. The course reviews different theoretical approaches to social work. enrolment limited to students admitted to the School of Social Work Student Handbook & Program Guide for the Bachelor of Social Work 16

21 4th Year Level SOCW 401-: Northern/Remote SW Practice Northern and Remote Social Work Practice builds on the structural approach examined in SOCW 01-. Critical generalist practice will be examined within the context of current and emerging client populations and practice issues. The course aims to develop a critical awareness/analysis of the nature, cause and response of social workers to the social problems they are meant to deal with in the field practice aspects of their work in northern and remote communities. all 100, 200, and 00 level required courses in Social Work SOCW : Social Work Field Education ll This field placement requires students to perform in a social work role or organizational setting five days per week through the entire term. Field education provides undergraduate students with an opportunity to enhance and refine their social work skills. As much as possible, the assigned field education setting will broadly match the particular type of social work experience that the student wishes to pursue. The course includes three one-day seminars as part of the field education placement. all 100-, 200-, 00-, and 400- level requirements; enrolment limited to students admitted to the School of Social Work SOCW 420-: Family/Child Welfare Policy Family and Child Welfare Policy focuses particularly on feminist and First Nations critiques of child welfare policy and social work intervention. It critically examines assumptions in family and child welfare policy including notions of family, substitute care, conceptions about violence and neglect, and the implications of child and welfare policy for social work practice in northern communities. SOCW 20-; enrolment limited to students admitted to the School of Social Work SOCW 421-: Human Growth and Development (cross-listed as Psychology 45) Examines human growth and development with an emphasis on social processes from birth to death. The course follows a life cycle approach and addresses the influence of issues such as culture, class, gender and sexual orientation. Linkages are drawn between individual human development and health and social welfare policy, particularly as it affects residents of northern British Columbia. Note: students who have not taken a human growth and development course must take this course prior to graduating with a BSW. Enrolment limited to students admitted to the Health Sciences, Nursing, Psychology and Social Work, or with permission of the Social Work Chair. If students have previously taken a human growth and development course, they must check with a Student Advisor to ensure that the course meets the Human Growth and Development requirement. Precluded: PSYC 45- Student Handbook & Program Guide for the Bachelor of Social Work 17

22 SOCW 422-: Child Welfare Practice Child maltreatment is examined from the perspective of social work practice in the field of child welfare. The course looks at the various forms of child maltreatment including the methods of assessing maltreatment and the cultural and structural factors that must be considered in assessing issues such as risk. Intervention strategies are also examined along with legal procedures and responsibilities carried by child welfare social workers. SOCW 01- Only students admitted to the School of Social Work can take this course. Note: Required Course for Child Welfare Specialization SOCW 426-: Current Issues in Child Welfare Practice Current Issues in Child Welfare Practice highlights topical child welfare issues and current trends in child welfare practice, examines different methods of intervention and attempts to link changes in the economic circumstances of families to the social well being and healthy family functioning. Note: Required Course for Child Welfare Specialization SOCW 49-: Social Work/Law and the Justice System Social Work, Law and the Justice System will examine various areas of the Canadian legal system: constitutional documents and conventions, the court system, the provincial legislative powers, rights of Aboriginal Peoples, the Charter of Rights and Freedoms, and provincial legislation (such as Adoption Act; Child, Family and Community Service Act; Child, Youth and Family Advocacy Act, Family Relations Act, etc.). It also examines the practice of social work in court settings. Specifically, it provides a basic understanding of the rights and interests of children, rules of evidence, and the role of various interveners. Court writing skills will be introduced and court visits will be arranged. Note: Required Course for Child Welfare Specialization SOCW 455-: First Nations Governance and Social Policy Family Values and standards of First Nations form the basis of the study on First Nations policy development and its relationship to self-governance for First Nations' Communities. Topics explored include: self-determination from a First Nations perspective, its impact on Canadian Social Policy, along with the necessity to address Child and Family social needs into selfgovernance and planning. The course focuses on examples within British Columbia communities. Additionally, the course explores the importance of how social work practitioners need to become skilled advocates aimed at influencing policy and laws affecting First Nations and family systems. Note: Required Course for First Nations Specialization Student Handbook & Program Guide for the Bachelor of Social Work 18

23 SOCW 456-: Family Caring Systems This course develops an understanding of family caring systems from an Aboriginal/First Nations perspective. Topics explored include Aboriginal/First Nations world views, traditional roles of family members, the role that historical events have played in the development and current social realities of First Nations and the role that social workers can play in family wellness. Contemporary social work practices with Aboriginal/First Nations children and families are also analyzed and critically reflected upon, with a particular emphasis on future directions in Aboriginal/First Nations child and family welfare. Note: Required Course for First Nations Specialization SOCW 457-: Individual and Community Wellness This course develops an understanding of the role that wellness plays in the life of Aboriginal/First Nations individuals and communities. Topics explored include the definition of healing and wellness, the role that historical events have played in the development and current socioeconomic situation of First Nations and the role that social workers can play in the future development of health and wellness of First Nations individuals and communities. As well, the issue of self-care and self-management for First Nations people and the social workers who may work in high stress situations is explored. Note: Required Course for First Nations Specialization Student Handbook & Program Guide for the Bachelor of Social Work 19

24 SOCW 422-: Child Welfare Practice Elective Social Work Courses Child maltreatment is examined from the perspective of social work practice in the field of child welfare. The course looks at the various forms of child maltreatment including the methods of assessing maltreatment and the cultural and structural factors that must be considered in assessing issues such as risk. Intervention strategies are also examined along with the legal procedures and responsibilities carried by child welfare social workers. Prerequisite: SOCW 01- Only students admitted to the School of Social Work can take this course. SOCW 424-: Child Welfare/Sites of Resistance Sites of Resistance: Race, Poverty and Sexuality in the Fields of Child Welfare focuses on contemporary child welfare policy and practice from the standpoints of racial and sexual minorities as well as from those on the economic margins of contemporary capitalist/patriarchal society. Prerequisite: SOCW 420- SOCW 426-: Current Issues in Child Welfare Practice Current Issues in Child Welfare Practice highlights topical child welfare issues and current trends in child welfare practice, examines different methods of intervention and attempts to link changes in the economic circumstances of families to the social well being and healthy family functioning. SOCW 42-: Unemployment and Social Work Unemployment, Social Welfare and Social Work Practice examines the implications of unemployment and underemployment for social work practice and policy within a provincial, national and global context. In particular, the course will focus on the reframing of unemployment as a social work issue, explore the social consequences of joblessness, and identify models of policy and practice which are applicable in different environments: northern, rural, urban and single industry communities. Alternative policies will be explored. SOCW 4-: Women in the Human Services From a feminist and structural social work perspective, this course examines a range of women s issues in terms of socialization, work, health, sexuality, power and the state, legal issues, and the impact these have on the roles and positions of women in Canadian society, and in particular within human and social services. Student Handbook & Program Guide for the Bachelor of Social Work 20

25 SOCW 45-: Community Social Policy Community Social Policy and Social Work Practice represents a community practice project geared to integrating Social Work theory, policy, research and practice with specific community issues. Students will prepare public briefs on actual areas of community concern in the light of social work and welfare theory, policy and practice. The brief l focuses on proposed forms of action and the implementation of the strategies of change and intervention. SOCW 47-: SW with Groups and Communities Social Work with Groups and Communities examines the historical evolution of group work and the role that Social Work has played within this context. Different types of group approaches and experiences are discussed, including professionally led groups and self-help groups. Students consider the operation of groups through analysis of group norms, roles, values, goals and decision making from a perspective that is both theoretical and experiential. SOCW 48-: Comparative Welfare Analysis Comparative Social Welfare Analysis (also listed as SOCW 621) provides a critical introduction to Canadian and comparative social policy as it relates to evolving issues in Social Work practice. Its main theme is to show how the welfare systems of individual countries can only be understood through exploring the wider international context. Particular attention is paid to the interactions between family policies and issues of race and gender, and to the processes by which individuals or groups are given or denied access to full welfare citizenship. Topics include: principles of comparative studies; models of welfare; convergence versus divergence; the dynamics of welfare-state development; welfare regime analysis; crisis of the welfare states; and the impact of welfare states. SOCW 49-: SW/Law and the Justice System Social Work, Law and the Justice System examines various areas of the Canadian legal system: constitutional documents and conventions, the court system, the provincial legislative powers, rights of Aboriginal Peoples, the Charter of Rights and Freedoms, and provincial legislation (such as Adoption Act; Child, Family and Community Service Act; Child, Youth and Family Advocacy Act, Family Relations Act, etc.). It also examines the practice of Social Work in court settings. Specifically, it provides a basic understanding of the rights and interests of children, rules of evidence, and the role of various interveners. Court writing skills will be introduced and court visits will be arranged. Student Handbook & Program Guide for the Bachelor of Social Work 21

26 SOCW 440-: Social Work in Mental Health This course examines policy and practice issues pertaining to the understanding and delivery of Social Work services to people with a psychiatric disability. Although the content will explore many ideas that are international and national in scope, the primary focus will be on the policies and practices that are relevant to people in northern British Columbia. Students will examine assessment and intervention methods as well as analyze the impact of current trends and changes in the health and social welfare system pertaining to people who require mental health services. The nature and impact of psychiatric disability are viewed from both an individual level as well as a structural level of analysis. The major emphasis is on practice and policy issues relating to people who are sometimes described as psychiatric survivors. SOCW 441-: SW and Substance Abuse Social Work and Substance Abuse examines alcohol and other drugs in terms of their effects on individuals, families and society. It also looks at different roles of social workers and human service workers in helping people deal with and understand alcohol and drug abuse. SOCW 442-: SW with Victims of Abuse Social Work with Victims of Abuse examines physical, emotional and sexual abuse and violence perpetrated on less powerful individuals. The roles played by the helping professions in this context are also examined. SOCW 44-: Medical Social Work Focuses on the knowledge, attitudes and skills workers need to practice effectively in health care settings. Case studies will be used to demonstrate different methods of intervention in this context. SOCW 444-: SW: Critical Issues in Aging Critical Issues in Aging, Social Work Practice and Research examines the physical, social and psychological needs of the elderly. Adaptation of generic social work skills in effective intervention with and on behalf of the aged is also examined. SOCW 445-: SW and Cross-Cultural Practice Social Work and Cross-Cultural Practice provides interdisciplinary approaches to understanding cultural and visible minority groups in relation to society and differential access to power are examined. The course will examine and critically evaluate different methods of assistance and intervention offered by social work to minority groups. Student Handbook & Program Guide for the Bachelor of Social Work 22

27 SOCW 448-: Inequality and Income Security Poverty, Inequality and Income Security examines the changing landscape of Canadian social policy and its implications for poverty, income inequality and income security. It reviews the evolution and devolution of major Canadian income security policies with a special focus on British Columbia. The implications of these changes on poverty and income inequality are examined for the people that live and work in Northern British Columbia. This is done by looking at changes in poverty and income inequality for specific groups that include single mothers, First Nations, women, men, the unemployed and underemployed, the elderly, and those dependent on public assistance. SOCW 449-: Gender and Sexuality Gender and Sexuality: Social Constructions and Everyday Lives critically examines constructions of gender and sexuality that include cross-cultural and class analyses. It also focuses on the historical character of sexual relations and gender and begin to challenge what is taken for granted in contemporary society specifically as these notions affect social work policy and practice. SOCW 450-: SW and Family Practice Social Work and Family Practice through the application of family systems theory, will examine current approaches to working with families in community counselling settings. Completion of a family assessment, as well as a critical examination of power dynamics in families, and their connection with the larger society will be undertaken. Issues of gender, race, age, class, sexual preference, and so on, will be analysed in this context. SOCW 452-: SW/Crisis Intervention Crisis Intervention in Social Work examines the historical development of crisis intervention practice and theory. Several models of crisis intervention are presented with an analysis of their application to particular areas and fields of social work practice. Included in the fields of practice are suicide assessment and intervention, child abuse, spousal assault, physical illness and disability, psychiatric emergency and grief resolution. Analysis and discussion will centre around crisis intervention as it applies to social work practice with minority groups in northern communities. In addition to lecture and discussion material, interview and process skills will be practised in this course. Student Handbook & Program Guide for the Bachelor of Social Work 2

28 SOCW 45-: Social Work Practice and Spirituality This course provides a forum for the critical exploration of the impact and influence of religious thought and practices on human service work. The historical roots of this work are based in religious movements, aspects of which still affect today s practice/policy. In an increasingly multicultural environment, students must have a fundamental understanding of religion and spirituality in order to practice effectively. SOCW 454-: Disability Issues This course involves students in an examination of perspectives on disability, as well as a critical analysis of current theories, policies, and practice. The course begins with an examination of common assumptions about disability and provides opportunities to challenge and critique interpretations of the nature and meaning of disability. SOCW 455-: First Nations Governance and Social Policy Family Values and standards of First Nations form the basis of the study on First Nations policy development and its relationship to self-governance for First Nations' Communities. Topics explored include: self-determination from a First Nations perspective, its impact on Canadian Social Policy, along with the necessity to address Child and Family social needs into selfgovernance and planning. The course focuses on examples within British Columbia communities. Additionally, the course explores the importance of how social work practitioners need to become skilled advocates aimed at influencing policy and laws affecting First Nations and family systems. SOCW 456-: Family Caring Systems This course creates an understanding of family caring systems from an Aboriginal/First Nations perspective. Topics explored include Aboriginal/First Nations worldviews, traditional roles of family members, the role that historical events have played in the development and current social realities of First Nations and the role that social workers can play in family wellness. Contemporary social work practices with Aboriginal/First Nations children and families are also analyzed and critically reflected upon, with a particular emphasis on directions in Aboriginal/First Nations child and family welfare. SOCW 457-: Individual and Community Wellness This course creates an understanding of the role that wellness plays in the life of Aboriginal/First Nations individuals and communities. Topics to be explored include the definition of healing and wellness, the role that historical events have played in the development and current socioeconomic situation of First Nations and the role that social workers can play in the future development of health and wellness of First Nations individuals and communities. As well, the issue of self-care and self-management for First Nations people and the social workers who may work in high stress situations is explored. Student Handbook & Program Guide for the Bachelor of Social Work 24